Global Courant 2023-05-06 17:34:45
King Charles III has been crowned at Westminster Abbey in a ceremony based on ancient traditions at a time when the British monarchy faces an uncertain future.
Trumpets sounded in the medieval abbey and the congregation shouted “God save King Charles” as the ceremony began on Saturday in front of more than 2,000 guests, including world leaders, aristocrats and celebrities.
Outside, thousands of troops, tens of thousands of spectators and a few protesters gathered along a route the king traveled from Buckingham Palace in a gold-decorated horse-drawn carriage.
It was the final leg of a seven-decade journey for Charles from heir to monarch.
For the Royal Family and Government, the occasion – codenamed Operation Golden Orb – was a globally unparalleled display of heritage, tradition and spectacle.
The rite was expected to be watched by millions, with many greeting the day with apathy.
Some even reacted with contempt. Republican protesters gathered outside to shout “Not my king” from an institution they say stands for privilege and inequality in a country of rising poverty and fragile social ties. A handful were arrested.
